Scam library · United Kingdom · Updated 20 October 2026
Courier fraud: what they say, how to spot it, what to do
A caller may turn a story about an investigation into a doorstep collection. Stop before handing over cards, cash or valuables, and check the request independently.
What they say
Illustrative examples, written in our own words:
- We are investigating your bank and need you to help us keep this confidential.
- A courier will collect your bank card as evidence; tell us the PIN first.
- Withdraw cash and give it to the officer who comes to your door.
- Buy valuables for the operation and do not tell the shop why you need them.
How to spot it
- An unexpected caller combines authority, secrecy and a physical collection.
- You are asked for a PIN, a cash withdrawal or a purchase to assist an investigation.
- The caller tells you what to say to bank or shop staff to avoid their questions.
What to do now
- End the call. Do not prepare cards, cash or valuables for collection, and do not give out a PIN.
- Contact the bank through the number on your card. Check a supposed police request through a police contact route you find yourself.
- Do not confront a collector. If someone is at your door and you feel in immediate danger, call 999.
If you already paid or shared details
Call your bank immediately on the number on your card, using a trusted device. After hanging up, 159 can connect you to participating UK banks; coverage and call charges depend on your provider. Explain what you sent or shared and ask about stopping payments and securing the account.
If a collection has happened, tell the bank and police promptly. Write down the collection time and description without following the person. Keep messages and any available door-camera footage safely.
Under Payment Systems Regulator rules, UK banks and payment firms must refund most eligible authorised push payment (APP) scam losses from UK Faster Payments transfers made on or after 7 October 2024, up to £85,000 per claim. This means you were tricked into authorising a transfer. Eligibility and exceptions apply. Cards, cash, international transfers and crypto payments are not automatically covered by this rule. Report promptly and ask the bank to explain its assessment, any excess and the relevant deadlines.
Keep messages and payment references. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, report to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud). In Scotland, report to Police Scotland on 101. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Forward suspicious SMS texts to 7726 and emails to report@phishing.gov.uk, following GOV.UK reporting guidance. For message apps, use the app’s report and block tools. Reporting a message does not replace contacting your bank about a payment.
Questions people ask
Should I hand a card to someone sent by an unexpected caller?
Do not make the handover. End the call and check with the bank or police through contact details you find independently.
Does knowing my name prove the caller is police?
No. Personal details do not establish a caller’s identity. Check the request through a separate trusted route.